Recently, Ontario announced that it will be lifting some of its health and safety restrictions across businesses in the province, including casinos. This set of news is warmly welcomed by Niagara Casinos, which is now looking into rebuilding the business and slowly returning to normal operations and activities at its Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino Resort.
The unprecedented situation has been very tough on the land-based gambling industry, as since its occurrence in March 2020, casinos had to suspend operations several times. Most recently, the company’s two casinos closed down for almost a month this January, however, indicators such as the lift of restrictions suggest that the industry could soon recover.
Ready for a Rebuild
President of Niagara Casinos, Richard Taylor, reminded that the company with its Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino Resort is one of the biggest employers in the Niagara Falls region with over 3,500 associates. He revealed that with the January reopening, the corporation recalled almost 2,200 staff members, and it is expected to recall even more as restrictions are lifted.
Mr. Taylor explained that the unprecedented situation has been quite heavy on employees, as some of them were placed under the province’s infectious disease emergency leave. This is a program that allows up to three days of paid leave. According to the company’s president, there are also provisions for unpaid, job-protected leave. Also, the firm will recall staff based on customer levels and the ability to reopen all amenities.
In addition to that, he also commented that it was difficult for the company to operate in a limited capacity or not at all over the last two years. But he made it clear that it understood the need for health and safety restrictions, and supports Public Health directives from Ontario. He also shared that the company is happy to be working again in the province.
Besides gaming activities, the two casinos will also witness the return of dining amenities and live shows. The Avalon Ballroom is set to open its doors next month, with the show Jersey Nights kicking off the fun. The president also added that dining options have also made their comeback, the hotel is operational, and everything is now looking good.
Celebrating a Quarter Century of Work
In December last year, Casino Niagara celebrated 25 years of exceptional service in Niagara Falls. Since its opening, the casino has welcomed more than 100 million gamblers each year. In order to mark the occasion, the company introduced a special menu at LEV2L, as well as the casino was illuminated in green and gold colors, which are a trademark for the company.
Effect on Local Economy
Both Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino Resort bring tremendous economic value to the region, as the City of Niagara Falls receives around CA$20 million annually from them. Due to the closure of the two properties last year, a while back acting finance director Jon Leavens said that the municipality received only CA$3.9 million, thus creating a budget variance of around CA$19.1 million.
Source: Hutton, Richard “Niagara Casinos looks to rebuild business as restrictions ease”, NiagaraFallsReview, February 20, 2022
